Google hits the road with Android

Dubbed Android Auto, it allows drivers to use their car’s controls to use a handful of apps such as Google Maps.

A video demonstration for the technology also shows drivers using voice recognition technology to set reminders on their device.

Patrick Brady, director of engineering for Android, says the service “extends the android platform into the car”.

“People don’t want to check their phones at the door when they get behind the wheel, so we partnered with auto manufacturers and technology partners to figure out the best way to bring android into the car.

Google's Android Auto will make smartphone apps easier to use.

Android auto combines the best of both worlds; you get the connected apps and services on your smartphone with the physical controls that were optimised for driving in your car.

Google says the system “is far safer than fumbling around with your phone”.

“You’ll start to see Android Auto in cars later this year,” it says.

Google has already formed an “open automotive alliance” with manufacturers such as Audi, General Motors, Honda and Hyundai in a bid to improve integration between cars and devices.

Other manufacturers, including Volvo, Ferrari and Mercedes, are working with Apple’s rival CarPlay system, which is intended to make in-car infotainment screens work in a similar fashion to an iPhone or iPad.